A NEW parlour pub could be set to open its doors in an historic Leominster building if planning permission is approved.

Permission is being sought to change the use of the former Tourist Information Centre (TIC) in Corn Square to a drinking establishment.

If approved, the new venue would be a 'parlour'-type pub selling craft ales and beers.

The applicant, Richard Franklin, of Tenbury Wells-based Franklin Gallimore, said: "Leominster is one of the only places in the area without a parlour pub.

"It's a very good local operator who is going to be involved and who has a long history with the town.

"It'll be supplying a lot of unusual beers and a lot of local beers, which is a key part of it. It's a different experience to other bars, it's very mellow."

Mr Franklin said there are plans for only minor alterations to the building, which was the former office and press of the Leominster Printing Company and Leominster News before it was the TIC.

"The whole thing is to keep alterations to an absolute minimum. It's got a long association with Leominster," he said, adding that the prominent building was also in a good location for tourists to visit to try some local produce.

The town's TIC now operates at 11 Corn Square, which Leominster Town Council purchased for its new offices. The former TIC has been empty since the move took place earlier this year.

On offer at the new pub would be quality beers and speciality craft beer, but the atmosphere is also an important part of the set-up.

Mr Franklin continued: "It would be a very gentle atmosphere, no loud music or TV to grab the attention and will be a place for proper conversation and good camaraderie.

"We felt in that location as well it would be nice for people to see somebody in there they know and just pop in and have a chat."

He added that enquiries were received from a number of retailers but it was felt that a pub was the best – and a very good – use of the building

If plans are approved it is hoped that the new parlour pub would open early in the new year.